Northern Boulevard bike lanes in Queens to be overhauled after safety concerns

BAYSIDE, Queens (PIX11) -- Bike lanes on Northern Boulevard in Bayside are expected to undergo an overhaul after some residents complained they are unsafe and unsightly.

The protected bike lanes run on Northern Boulevard between 223rd Street and Douglaston Parkway.

Some said having exits and entrances onto the Cross Island Parkway from Northern Boulevard creates an unsafe environment.

Community Board 11 Queens chairperson added that some vehicles coming off the parkway ended up right on top of the concrete barriers. 

“It’s only a matter of time before one of those cars flips over. Hits a car, a biker, a Walker, kills someone in the car. It’s so unnecessary,” Chairperson Paul DiBenedetto said. “While it’s arguably better for bike safety, it’s such a poor job of it.”

After years of pushing, last year, Community Board 11 Queens members asked the city to consider a greenway in the space. 

“They build them across the city. West Side Highway is an example. There’s no jersey barriers. There are plants. There’s a place to walk, for cars. It’s safe, it’s attractive,” DiBenedetto said.

The city council recently allocated $3.74 million to revamp its 2025 budget.

Department of Transportation spokesperson said in a statement,

“Our redesign of Northern Boulevard has helped calm traffic on one of Queens’ most dangerous streets. We’re thrilled to receive funding from Speaker Adams and Council Member Paladino to support a capital project that will upgrade this design with sturdier materials.”

DOT spokesperson

Cyclists and the board are thrilled change is on the way.  

“I think it’s good if they do the research,” Cyclist Keith Jordan from Queens Village said.

The DOT would not confirm if a greenway is planned and said the plan is still in its preliminary stages.